National Citizens Survey 2016: Overall Results

The study was commissioned by Public Association Representation in Moldova, International Research & Exchanges Board (PA IREX Moldova), and the Novateca Program. The research objectives included identifying information sources, establishing credibility of information sources, determining the roles of public libraries and librarians, and evaluating the impact of the "See You at the Library" campaign. The survey was conducted on a sample of 1,200 respondents in 68 Moldovan localities between November 12 and 27, 2016. The data gathered were statistically analyzed and compared with information obtained in 2014 under a similar study. The results showed a significant increase in the perception of public libraries as hospitable and comfortable places, from 40% in 2014 to 70% in 2016. This trend was also observed in the perception of libraries as places where people meet and share their experience and information. Public libraries were able to promote their image and attract more visitors by developing certain public services and activities through direct involvement with the community. The activities provided by public libraries in 2014 that a considerable share of interviewees felt were important were information sessions about migration possibilities, trainings on health and healthy lifestyle, and professional advice. For two years, patrons who expressed interest in community activities organized by public libraries have become more focused on various topics such as obtaining necessary information, legal advice, labor market information, and cultural activities. The survey also found a steady trend of perception on public libraries as important points of access to computers and the internet. More respondents said that they come to the library for free access to use computers and the internet. As a result of the Novateca program, more libraries are being modernized in Moldova, a fact noted when analyzing the 2016 survey results compared to 2014. A constant growth rate was recorded in population statements on improving conditions in public libraries, the presence of computers for public access, and connection to the internet. The methodology used in the survey included a multistadial, stratified, nonprobabilistic sample of 1,200 respondents from the Republic of Moldova. The sample was representative for the area of research and represented the demographic structure of the investigated population. The survey was conducted in 68 Moldovan settlements on 170 secondary sampling units, with a maximum of seven interviews conducted on each SSU. The research technique used was direct interview (face to face) with the selected respondent, and the toolkit used was a sociological standardized questionnaire composed of thematic blocks of questions.